Table of Contents

The Diagnostic / The Situation

The Porsche 928 is a grand tourer that was produced from 1978 to 1995. It’s known for its powerful V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and pop-up headlights. However, like any other car, it requires regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll focus on the maintenance and upgrade of the Porsche 928, with a special emphasis on the Ruf Porsche 928.

As a master mechanic with 20 years of experience, I’ve worked on numerous Porsche 928s, including the rare Ruf Porsche 928. In this guide, I’ll share my expertise on how to diagnose and repair common issues, as well as upgrade the car’s performance.

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Symptoms or signs to look for in a Porsche 928 include:

Oil leaks from the engine or transmission
Overheating engine
Faulty pop-up headlights
Worn-out brake pads or rotors
Uneven tire wear

Technical Deep Dive

The Porsche 928 has a 4.5L or 5.0L V8 engine, depending on the model year. The engine is paired with a 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The car’s suspension system consists of a double-wishbone setup in the front and a semi-trailing arm setup in the rear.

Common failure points in the Porsche 928 include:

The plastic impeller in the water pump
The rear main seal in the engine
The transmission mounts
The brake pads and rotors
The pop-up headlight motors

The Ruf Porsche 928, on the other hand, is a highly modified version of the 928. It features a tuned engine, upgraded suspension, and unique bodywork. The Ruf 928 has a 5.0L V8 engine that produces over 400 horsepower.

Pre-Work Checklist

At a Glance Table

Task	Difficulty	Time	Cost	DIY vs Shop
Oil change	2	1 hour	$100	DIY
Brake pad replacement	3	2 hours	$200	DIY
Transmission mount replacement	4	3 hours	$300	Shop
Engine tune-up	5	5 hours	$500	Shop

Tools Required

10mm socket
13mm socket
Torque wrench
Socket set
Pliers
Screwdrivers

Safety Warnings

Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses when working on a car
Make sure the car is on a level surface and apply the parking brake
Never work on a car that is in motion

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Oil Change

Step 1.1: Locate the oil drain plug

The oil drain plug is located at the bottom of the engine, near the front of the car. Use a 10mm socket to remove the plug.

Step 1.2: Drain the oil

Allow the oil to drain completely before replacing the plug.

Step 1.3: Replace the oil filter

Use a new oil filter and hand tighten it in a clockwise direction.

Step 2: Brake Pad Replacement

Step 2.1: Remove the wheel

Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel and expose the brake caliper.

Step 2.2: Remove the caliper

Use a 13mm socket to remove the caliper bolts.

Step 2.3: Remove the old brake pads

Pull out the old brake pads and discard them.

Step 2.4: Install the new brake pads

Insert the new brake pads and make sure they are properly seated.

Step 3: Transmission Mount Replacement

Step 3.1: Raise the car

Use a lift or jack to raise the car and expose the transmission mounts.

Step 3.2: Remove the old mounts

Use a socket set to remove the old mounts.

Step 3.3: Install the new mounts

Insert the new mounts and hand tighten them in a clockwise direction.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

Always use the correct type of oil for your Porsche 928
Never over-tighten the brake caliper bolts
Make sure the transmission mounts are properly aligned before tightening them
Don’t forget to replace the oil filter when changing the oil

Cost Analysis: DIY vs Mechanic

The cost of maintaining and upgrading a Porsche 928 can vary depending on the task and the mechanic. However, here are some estimated costs:

Oil change: $100 (DIY), $200 (mechanic)
Brake pad replacement: $200 (DIY), $400 (mechanic)
Transmission mount replacement: $300 (DIY), $600 (mechanic)

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of oil should I use in my Porsche 928? The recommended oil type for a Porsche 928 is 10W-40 synthetic oil.
How often should I change the oil in my Porsche 928? The recommended oil change interval for a Porsche 928 is every 5,000 miles.
What are the symptoms of a faulty transmission mount in a Porsche 928? The symptoms of a faulty transmission mount include vibration, noise, and uneven tire wear.
Can I upgrade the engine in my Porsche 928? Yes, it is possible to upgrade the engine in a Porsche 928. However, it requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
How much does it cost to maintain a Porsche 928? The cost of maintaining a Porsche 928 can vary depending on the task and the mechanic. However, estimated costs range from $100 to $1,000 per year.

Reference: Technical analysis by Marcus Reynolds (Suspension Engineer) based on reports from Motor1 News.